What are the differences between drum, caliper and disc brakes?

For an excellent article on gas scooter brakes, visit Q&A: Gas Scooter Brakes The differences are huge. And important. Brakes are obviously an important part of your gas scooters equipment. Consideration must be given as to where the scooter will typically be used (in the rain?), the weight of the rider, and in what state the gas powered scooter will be ridden. Here are the differences: • Drum Brakes - This is the most common brake found on gas scooters. It's design is similar to that found on older cars and motor cycles. A pair of brake shoes expand inside of the scooters tire hubs, stopping the gas scooter. Drum brakes are sometimes designed with a strap that goes around the outside of a hub and contracts when actuated. This design is more correctly called a strap brake. Drum brakes work well when the linkages are kept lubricated and the cables to them are not kinked or frayed. Drum brakes attempt to keep water and dust out, but also can accumulate dirt and brake dust inside of ...  more